Though Carytas and Serena have managed to escape from the doomed city of Sila, the trouble hasn't stopped. Their interrupted flight leads them into a web of soldiers, spies, and treason.

Now, imprisoned, tormented, and chained, Cary must take full possesion of her nascent powers and push herself to her limit. With the height of winter drawing near and the Queen getting closer daily, Cary's escape will depend on freeing her own power from its bonds - with the help of one of her captors.